Appalachian Rivers Aquarium

bryson city, north carolina

The Appalachian Rivers Aquarium in Bryson City, North Carolina is much more than meets the eye. There, they house a reasonable collection of North Carolina’s native freshwater species that is impressive for the size of the facility, including some Eastern Hellbenders (or “mud puppies”) that reside in a tank that has an immersive space underneath so you can view them more clearly from the bottom. Although the fish section is small, there’s a lot of learning material throughout in addition to the engaging fish tank setups.

            Also at the aquarium is a wonderful exhibit on fly fishing that maps locations throughout Appalachia, reaching beyond western North Carolina up to Virginia and down to Georgia. This exhibit is grounded in place, clearly crafted with care for its local contributors, many of whom have bios within the exhibit and were evidently greatly loved within the community before their passing. The exhibit space is warm-toned, likely due to its construction from reclaimed barn wood. Furthermore, the space is used excellently—there’s a lot on display, including a boat mounted towards the ceiling, but the space doesn’t feel excessively cluttered. One of their other statement pieces, a replication of a fly-tying workstation, is also painstakingly crafted and adds a lot to the exhibit.

            Best of all, admission is free! Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and Train Museum is just across the street, so the Appalachian Rivers Aquarium is easy to visit for anyone visiting Bryson City for those reasons.